European Elegies/Autumn (1)/Loss
13.LOSS
The spring has gone. And I have lost the flowers I might have gathered from its meadow-grass.I merely marked the sudden spring aspireUp through the turf in frost and golden fire, And, as I dallied, saw that glory passAs swiftly as the rainbow of June showers. Ah, maiden beauty, fleeting are thy hours!
Summer has gone. And I have missed the gleaning I might have gathered from its harvest-field .I merely marked the flaming wheat-waves swayingAcross the leas where summer winds were playing; But as I gazed, time seized that yellow yieldAnd fate forestalled my frantic intervening— Ah, love, at last I know thy tragic meaning!
Autumn has come. Bare stubbled prairies taunt me In my sad brooding on what might have been.Across the sky the haggard mists are weavingA fog-shroud for the dying sun's receiving; And fears of these dark days, bereavement's keenHeart-hunger and deep thirst of spirit haunt me. Alas, the terrors of love's winter daunt me!
From the Slovak of Hviezdoslav.